Navigating Health Information Overload

Doug Simon, CEO of D S Simon Media, and Saramaya Penacho, Executive Vice President of Health at Edelman, discuss key findings from the 2026 Edelman Trust Barometer Special Report: Trust and Health. They discuss why 70% of respondents believe in at least one divisive health claim. She shares how healthcare communicators can foster empathetic, two-way conversations that build trust. She also highlights the value of uniting audiences around shared health goals.D S Simon Media is a recognized innovator in broadcast public relations and the creator of the industry’s first AI-Powered Broadcast Media Tour™. Over the last five years the firm has scheduled and produced more than 5,000 media segments annually, further establishing itself as a category leader. Clients include top brands in healthcare, technology, travel, financial services, food and beverage, consumer goods, entertainment, retail, non-profits, and associations. Celebrating its 40th Anniversary in 2026, the company has won more than 125 industry awards.